The Angels' bullpen is a fascinating mix of potential and uncertainty, with a group of pitchers looking to prove their worth and overcome injury setbacks. It's a story of second chances and the pursuit of a reliable closer role.
The Angels' front office seems content with their current roster, opting not to make any significant free-agent moves. Instead, they've assembled a bullpen primarily consisting of pitchers looking to reclaim their former glory. With the departure of Kenley Jansen and Reid Detmers moving back to the rotation, the Angels have signed Kirby Yates, Drew Pomeranz, Jordan Romano, and Brent Suter to one-year deals, all at a bargain price of $5MM or less.
But here's where it gets intriguing: their highest-ceiling relievers are those returning from injuries. Ben Joyce, a true power pitcher, can reach speeds of 104 mph with his fastball, a sight to behold for any baseball fan. However, Joyce's journey was cut short last year after just five appearances due to a shoulder injury, requiring season-ending surgery in May. Despite this, Joyce recently threw his first bullpen session since the operation, a promising sign for the upcoming season.
The Angels' general manager, Perry Minasian, is taking a cautious approach with Joyce, unsure if he'll be ready for Opening Day. Minasian's philosophy is clear: "I'd rather him miss two weeks than six months." This cautious optimism suggests that Joyce's recovery is on track, but the team isn't rushing him back.
If Joyce isn't ready, Robert Stephenson steps into the spotlight. Stephenson, a veteran righty, has had his fair share of health issues over the past two seasons, including Tommy John surgery in 2024, keeping him out of action until last May. He's dealt with nerve issues and elbow inflammation, which has limited his availability. However, Stephenson is confident he'll be ready for Opening Day, despite acknowledging he's "a little bit behind" in his preparation.
And this is the part most people miss: the Angels' new skipper, Kurt Suzuki, isn't in a rush to name a closer. With the health concerns surrounding Joyce and Stephenson, Suzuki sees the benefit of having options and flexibility. Romano and Yates, with their multiple 30-save seasons, provide experienced alternatives, but their performance in 2025 left something to be desired.
In other bullpen news, non-roster invitee Nick Sandlin underwent arthroscopic elbow surgery last October, a procedure that went unreported until now. Sandlin, who finished the previous season on the injured list with the Blue Jays, has a decent chance to make the MLB roster if he has a strong spring. He's scheduled to throw his first bullpen session this weekend, a crucial step towards proving his worth.
The Angels' bullpen is a story of resilience and second chances. With a mix of experienced veterans and pitchers looking to reclaim their glory, the race for the closer role is wide open. Who will step up and seize the opportunity? Only time will tell.
